Hi everyone,
I’m considering setting up a dedicated, mobile, ultimate LAN party server and would love some input, suggestions and ideas.
Here’s what I have in mind:
- Dual connection options: The server should create a LAN, that should be accessible via both WiFi and an ethernet cable.
- A built-in e.g. 10-port switch for easy connectivity.
- An integrated access point supporting the latest WiFi 6 technology.
- An embedded power strip with 10 outlets to power all the necessary devices.
- Implementation of ZeroTier to facilitate remote access to the server for those who cannot attend.
- A deployed NAS system for hosting game installers, ensuring easy and quick setup for all games.
- Lastly, setting up a game server hypervisor, possibly using something like pterodactyl.io for efficient management.
Here are some initial thoughts I have for this setup:
- a small form factor (SFF) PC with double NIC, equipped with a substantial amount of RAM to handle multiple tasks efficiently.
- running Debian to serve as a Docker host (or proxmox to run VM/LXC). This should provide flexibility and ease in managing different services.
- as for network management, I am considering combining it with a mikrotik device - that would solve the DHCP, DNS and ZeroTier - but I’m wondering if there’s a nice docker/LXC solution that could replace a dedicated device 🤔
- for smart DNS management, I’m thinking of implementing a simple web service, for when a new device joins the network I can easily assign DNS-resolvable hostname for it.
- maybe even add some kind of PXE provider (e.g. netboot.xyz) for those folks, who only have a laptop their employer gave them and do not want or can install games on it
- put all of this in some kind of mobile case, maybe a systainer or two that is used for workshop tools
I’m excited to put this together but would really appreciate any advice or recommendations, especially from those who have done something similar. Thanks in advance!
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Lan party means one subnet, so any dumb switch will do. As far as the meat, maybe you can pickup one of those corporate mini PCs with dual nic off ebay. I’ve got a zotac amd box that has been great for pfsense, dual nics, maybe 30-40 bucks usd off ebay. The wifi would be a bit harder to figure. If you want wifi 6,as far as I know you’re gonna have to buy the dedicated hardware.
Let us know how it goes though!
This sub is about software, not any hardware builds or purchase advice. Try /r/Homelab /r/HomeServer /r/BuildaPC etc instead.
My realtor was trying to sell me a trailer that was a mobile lan party that she would rent for events. Which was a brilliant idea. I had no time since I work multiple jobs. But that would be an awesome side gig. She got it for her son as a business but he opted to work at Lowes instead for some juvenile reason.
Hah, sounds like a great idea :D Unfortunately, here in EU, it’s not common for people to have driver’s license that would allow to drive a trailer. 3.5T is the limit for most people.